Recovering from hip replacement

After the operation, you will be lying flat on your back and may have a pillow between your legs to keep your hip in the correct position. The nursing staff will monitor your condition and you will have a large dressing on your leg to protect the wound.

You may be allowed to have a drink about an hour after you return to the ward and, depending on your condition, you may be allowed to have something to eat.

How soon will I be up and about?

The staff will help you to get up and walk about as quickly as possible after surgery. Some patients are able to get up and walk the same day as their surgery.

Initially, you will feel discomfort while walking and exercising, and your legs and feet may be swollen. You may be given an injection into your abdomen to help prevent blood clots forming in your legs, and possibly a short course of antibiotics to help prevent infection.

A physiotherapist may teach you exercises to help strengthen the hip and explain what should and should not be done after the operation. They will teach you how to bend and sit to avoid damaging your new hip.

Looking after your new hip

With care, your new hip should last well. The following advice may be given by the hospital to help you care for your new hip. However, the advice may vary based on your doctors recommendations:

avoid bending your hip more than 90° (a right angle) during any activity

avoid twisting your hip

do not swivel on the ball of your foot

when you turn around, take small steps

do not apply pressure to the wound in the early stages (so try to avoid lying on your side)

do not cross your legs over each other

do not force the hip or do anything that makes your hip feel uncomfortable

avoid low chairs and toilet seats (raised toilet seats are available)

When can I go home?

You will usually be in hospital for around three to five days. If you are generally fit and well, the surgeon may suggest an enhanced recovery programme, where you start walking on the day of the operation and are discharged within one to three days.

How will I feel when I get home?

Do not be surprised if you feel very tired at first. You have had a major operation and muscles and tissues surrounding your new hip will take time to heal.

You may be eligible for home help and there may be aids that can help you. You may want to arrange to have someone to help you for a week or so.

An occupational therapist should be available to help you. They will assess how physically capable you are and, when you are about to leave hospital, they will assess your circumstances at home.

Your occupational therapist will be able to advise you on how to do daily activities, such as washing yourself. They will also advise about any equipment you may need to help you to be independent in your daily activities. This may include a raised toilet seat and aids to help you dress.

How soon will the pain go away?

The pain that you may have experienced before the operation should go immediately, although you can expect to feel some pain as a result of the operation itself, but this will not last for long.

Is there anything I should look out for or worry about?

After hip replacement surgery, contact your GP if you notice redness, fluid or an increase in pain in the new joint.

Will I have to go back to hospital?

You will be given an appointment to check up on your progress, usually 6-12 weeks after your hip replacement. The surgeon will want to see you a year later to check that everything is OK, and every five years after that to X-ray your hip and make sure it is not beginning to loosen.

How long will it be before I feel back to normal?

Generally, you should be able to stop using your crutches within four to six weeks and feel more or less normal after three months, by which time you should be able to perform all your normal activities.

It is best to avoid extreme movements or sports where there is a risk of falling, such as skiing or riding. Your doctor or a physiotherapist can advise you about this.

When can I drive again?

You can usually drive a car after about six weeks, subject to advice from your surgeon. It can be tricky getting in and out of your car at first. It is best to ease yourself in backwards and swing both legs round together.

When can I go back to work?

This depends on your job, but you can usually return to work 6-12 weeks after your operation.

How will it affect my sex life?

If you were finding sex difficult before because of pain, you may find that having the operation gives your sex life a boost. Your surgeon can advise when it is OK to have sex again. As long as you are careful, you should be able to have sex after six to eight weeks. Avoid vigorous sex and more extreme positions.

Will I need another new hip?

Nowadays, most hip implants last for 15 years or more. If you are older, your new hip may last your lifetime. If you are younger, you may need another new hip at some point.

Revision surgery is more complicated and time-consuming for the surgeon to perform than a first hip replacement and complication rates are usually higher. It cannot be performed in every patient. However, it is much more successful than it used to be and most people who can have it report success for 10 years or more.

Post-operative hip care

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An expert explains how a physiotherapist will help to get your hip moving again after surgery.

Media last reviewed: 23/04/2015

Next review due: 23/04/2017

Avoiding falls

You will need to be extra careful to avoid falls in the first few weeks after surgery as this could damage your hip, meaning you may then require more surgery.

Use any walking aid, such as crutches, a cane or a walker as directed.

Take extra care on the stairs and in the kitchen and bathroom as these are all common places where people can have accidental falls.

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Comments

The 44 comments about ‘Recovery’ posted are personal views. Any information they give has not been checked and may not be accurate.

Dawnhips said on 28 June 2015

I have just had bilateral direct anterior approach (DAA) on the 15 June 2015. I have been home since day 3. I had the op at ROH Bham. I too was shocked at the pain I had in the muscles, something I was not ready for. Having read lots of articles on the DAA hip replacement and got the impression it was less painful and a quicker recovery. I am now on day 13 and I am moving about without sticks or crutches, so reading lots of comments on various websites, this is quite good. But the muscle and tendon pain was horrendous and is gradually settling. I am still on pain relief and take it very easy. The muscles get very tight, but walking or moving about does loosen things up a while. I cant lie on my sides at the moment as it feels funny. But lying on my back gives me back ache, so a bit catch 22. I would like to point people to s forum for hip and knee replacements as it really has helped me understand the recovery process and how others have coped with THR surgery. It made me realise that we are all different and all have different recovery speeds. It also made me realise that just because I had a DAA this does still cause pain but at different amounts for different people.

campbek said on 27 April 2015

I am a 70 years old woman and had a THR on Easter Sunday at Basildon Hospital, Essex after a fall at home. Now post op 3 weeks 1 day.Had a general anaesthetic as recommended by surgeon. Op went well and was up next day first with a walking frame then because that went so well changed to crutches straight away. Was discharged and home late afternoon Tuesday because I had someone to look after me. I was surprised how soon I could walk around house without crutches. At 2 weeks could get around house without them and without holding on to anything. No trouble sleeping on my back but find I need to raise legs alternately to ease strain on back. Prefer pillow on outside of operated leg rather than between now after about 2 weeks sleeping with it between legs. Got 7 more injections to go in stomach. Daughter a paramedic thank goodness so she does this for me. Tried myself for 2 days but found it painful as couldn't do it fast enough. Why struggle when I can have a professional do it for me! Not doing exercises as I walk as much as I can. Maybe should but haven't had any contact from physio department to advise me how I am doing. Hip gets a little achy sometimes so I rest it and have a nap most days. Tried sleeping on a recliner chair but find bed more comfortable. Stopped taking Paracetamol after 2 weeks unless aching when I go to bed. No point in suffering unnecessarily. Can't thank staff at Basildon enough. From the paramedics who answered emergency call to everyone else involved in my op and recovery they were professional, caring and made a scary accident the best experience it could be in the circumstances. Basildon Hospital has had a lot of bad press recently but my experience has been the exact opposite. Thank you everyone.

Sahar1 said on 02 April 2015

I found that the most helpful thing following my total hip replacement op was to wear satin pyjama bottoms - they made moving in and out of bed and chairs much easier, and helped with doing the in-bed exercises. Not mentioned anywhere in the literature, nor advised by any health professional, but I think should be!

miyababy said on 14 December 2014

hi i had a total hip replacement on the 1st september my hip as healed lovely i am only 46 years old i have arthritis in both my hips and my right leg is now just a bit shorter then my left, just lately I've been having a lot of pain in my thigh i don't know if its from the pressure i put on my left leg before my op or is it normal would really love some advise on this, I'm still taking my tablets the doctor as gave me for my arthritis but only for my left leg thanks jenny

Noama said on 23 November 2014

I had a total left hip replacement on 31st October, and I am 42 years old. Stayed in hospital for two weeks as I had other complications. Been home now for over ten days and I'm finding everything ok. I'm still walking with my crutches and taking various precautions of not bending or twisting etc... The pain has settled but getting the odd pain either in the knee or upper thigh , which should settle soon. Keepin up with the exercises instructed by the physio before I left the hospital. It's just so frustrating now coz I'm just do fed up of not being able to do a lot of things , where as Im the sort of person who can never sit down.

Clarence L Thorpe said on 10 October 2014

I had a complete hip replacement just 4 weeks ago. I went to the Czech Republic where there is a fantastic private clinic specialising in orthopaedics. I spent 4 days in hospital during which I even learned to walk up and down stairs, on 2 hand crutches of course. I flew home after 2 more weeks during which time I took pain-killers and a self injected anti-thrombosis medication. I now take no more pain killers and can walk well with no crutches. I drive an automatic car with my non-operated leg and life is great. There is of course the tightness in the leg muscles and I continue to take anti-thrombosis med for 5 more days.The main thing as everyone will tell you is don't cross your legs and don't bend the operated hip more than 90º.In 1 month I expect to be tying shoe laces but I'm in no hurry. It is really is all worth the initial muscle pain after the op. Good luck to you all.

Kispr said on 22 September 2014

as the wife of a hip replacement patient, may I encourage anyone who has trouble sleeping, to buy some good quality Tonic Water?After nearly 5 weeks of terrible sleep disorders and trying any amount of sleeping pills / therapies etc., suggeted by surgeon and GP alike, we happened on the remedy of Tonic Water, which has a very small amount of quinine in it. It really did work. 8 fl oz before bedtime reduces all sorts of Restless Leg Syndromes!Hope it helps some of you!

mujoBl00dwedd1ng said on 14 September 2014

I am just coming up to 6 weeks post op having had my right hip replaced at the Royal Derby Hospital on 4th August. My surgeon recommended the Enhanced Recovery Programme which consisted of 2 carbohydrate drinks taken the night and the morning before my op and gabapentin tablets also started the night before my op. I don't know how much effect this has but my recovery has been amazing. I've had no pain apart from the 12 hours immediately after my op and have reduced my intake of painkillers steadily since I came home on the 4th day post op. I was able to walk around the house without crutches within a couple of weeks and I stopped using them outside within 3 weeks. Like most people I've had problems sleeping on my back but even that has improved and I've been able to rest on my operated side for longer periods for the last 3 weeks. I do tire quite quickly and I soon get out of breath when I walk but I was far from fit before my op so it's not surprising. I can do most things around the house and am looking forward to driving again. A definite success story as far as I'm concerned.

GemniSparkle said on 10 September 2014

I am a 65 yr old female and had battled degenerative osteoarthritis of the right hip for 5 yrs. Had my total hip replacement Aug 14 - surgery was successful and I was on my way home 3 days later! I had home therapy for less than l0 days when the therapist remarked at less than 2 wks I had progressed to that of a 6 wk post op. Moved a bit slow the first week and the first two days I could not get into bed alone as I couldn't raise my leg. The "tweaks" are NO fun.. so be sure to move slow!! By 3 wks I was without a cane and off Norcos. I found stiffness to be more of a problem than real "pain"... Get some cocoa butter for your incision and rub it in, carefully.. My therapist recommended that to help in reducing scar tissue. Icing for an hour - and again 4 hrs later helped a lot. I am now 4 wks post op and walking around the block. Because my leg lengths are different, my gait is a bit "off"...and my internal rotation needs some work -- I battle lower back pain. It will get better in time -- but everyone cautioned me.. NOT TOO FAST and DO NOT DO TOO MUCH. I admit I don't have much patience with the healing process but I will never risk dislocation and do my exercises as instructed along with outpatient physical therapy 2x weekly for several months. IT is wonderful to have that horrific groin pain gone -- I can actually drop my leg to the right .... and look forward to going back to walking my 3.7 miles a day. I still sleep with a pillow between my legs and may be able to drive by next week. I am a very active person and am grateful to the wonderful Dr, nurses, therapists, and excellent hospital for the superior care to get me well. You will find yourself a bit stiff in the mornings... but that will get better. Every day you will improve!! Much good luck!

Pazzy said on 29 August 2014

I am home now after my op on 20 August.Stayed an extra day as my leg ballooned a bit! I loathe the socks but the possibility of DVT is very much a concern so I'm going with is as much as I can although I get very uncomfortable and hot at night with them on. It's quite challenging getting into bed and very painful more so in the early hours if you need the bathroom! I live alone in an apartment that is brilliant in this type of situation and you just have to get on with it. I found myself not using my crutches yesterday....realised the you can get complacent and think that you are further on in the healing process than you actually are and putting the weight on too early doesn't help.Note to self today...Use them at all times. Haven't found washing at all problematic and even washed my hair, albeit in the kitchen sink. Not as far to bend forward. Feels so much nicer when hair is clean. Now feet are a problem. I'm going to try a bowl on a towel close to the kitchen add some warm water, perfumed shower or bath cream and soak them today. I want to give myself a challenge each day. Yesterday was too much but I figure that there was a man of 94 opening the Bournemouth Air Show by wing walking for charity and has done so for many years (check out You Tube) then I can do a Tandem Skydive after this next year. Staying positive and laughing about it all (especially the loo stuff, & don't say you didn't suffer) is the best medicine.

Swazcaz said on 12 August 2014

Hi everyone. I had my hip replacement on 26 July 14, so am now 17 days in. It all seemed to happen very quickly from finally seeing a Consultant to going in for my op. It's been a bit of a roller coaster! I was in hospital for 3 nights. They got us up the day after the op and I too was shocked at how stiff and sore I felt, I could hardly get my good leg off the ground! Sleep was a huge problem, I never normally sleep on my back so over the 3 nights in hospital I got a total of 7 hours sleep, which left me tearful and anxious. But the great news for me was that on my return home and due to the way my Consultant performs the surgery (minimal incision) I was able to try sleeping on my side with pillows between my knees. I can still only sleep on my good side for an hour at a time before the pain gets too much but at least it gives respite from my back! I'm still on 2 crutches and I'm still finding that walking still makes my operated side feels stiff and a bit sore. I'm doing my exercises but they seem to make the stiffness worse although I'm sure they will pay off in the end. I had my staples out yesterday and although the wound is good am still getting slight seepage which I've been told is normal. Everything else i.e. movement of the leg is coming on in leaps and bounds. One interesting thing I've noticed is that not eating regularly leaves me feeling quite ill, so it's little and often. I'm still getting very tired at times so I sleep when my body dictates, sadly still not a quality sleep at night but I'm sure that will improve! Overall I'm so happy that I had it done, I'm looking forward to being able to walk without pain for the first time in 10 years! So my advice is, go for it, take all of the hospital advice, and above all keep taking the pain killers for as long as you need to.

Sue peterboro said on 05 August 2014

4weeks ago I had my hip replacement op - everything going well but trying to get to sleep at night is awful! I don't need strong painkillers anymore so for the first time in many years I thought I could do without them. How wrong I was! If I don't want to be awake till 3 or 4 am then I still have to take the strong painkillers just to get off to sleep. Was getting quite depressed about this until I read others comments - we all seem to be in the same boat! Have to go back after 6 weeks so am praying I will be told that I will be able to snuggle down in bed and sleep in whichever position I want to!

tigs18 said on 27 July 2014

Just had a left total hip replacement July 2014 at Calderdale royal hospital Halifax the staff from consultant to cleaners were amazing professional caring nothing was too much trouble the stay was short 3-days would have been sooner but my wound leaked slightly soon dried up could not get over how difficult movement were initially on and off the bed chair toilet the hip was ok it was all the muscles surrounding it, I am 53 years old usually fit and well as active as able so this was a shock to system then was advised about hip precautions. OMG now have to stick to them for 6 weeks also sleep on my back this is a feat in itself but a zillion pillows keeping me semi propped up helps also a pillow under my left calf to keep my tender heel off the mattress helps, who would have thought sleeping would be done like a military excercise. The worst thing is severe night sweats has anyone else suffered these the bed has to be changed daily my poor hubby thank God I have got him to help, my heart goes out to people home alone I raise my hat to them having to do everything themselves. The thing you don't realise is the muscle pain the New joint is ok but it's everything around it that hurts making exercises difficult I am usually fit and active working full time so this is a shock to the system can't do this that or the other it's frustrating you can see things that need doing but your unable to do them.plus pushing yourself with exercises 3-Times daily as the fatigue is horrible also to have a walk every hour to keep things moving the opportunity was a breeze the hard work starts now my life for the next 6-weeks plus but hopefully it will all be worth it anyone who has surgery pending don't worry take it a day at a time and do as the staff advise yougood luck onwards and upwards as they say x

JimNol said on 26 July 2014

I am a 71 year old male. I had a Total Hip Replacement on 4th Feb 2014 at Chase Farm Hospital Enfield Middx. This hospital has had a lot of bad press in recent years but I did not have one bad moment from the time of my consultation right through the pre-admission assessment , day of surgery admission, surgery, recovery room and four days on the ward. I was up with a walking aid on the following day and walking quite comfortably on crutches on day two. I was amazingly pain-free right through the whole procedure. I used crutches for two weeks, then walking sticks for two more weeks. After that I carried a stick for peace of mind on my long walks but seldom used it. I am now looking forward to returning to playing golf again although I do not suppose my play will have improved. I am deeply grateful to all involved in my operation, the surgical team, ward nurses and staff, physiotherapists and of course the district nurse who cheered my up after I got home. Many thanks to Chase Farm.

susieq59 said on 19 July 2014

I had a right total hip replacement with a bone graft 13 weeks ago. I was in hospital for 7 days and had to have a blood transfusion. I was up out of bed the next day but was partial weight bearing for the first six weeks. I still find it painful to walk without the single crutch and the scar area is still very tender. I assume because of the bone graft and the fact that I had to have a screw in the hip to hold it all together that this what is making it still painful, although I have made an improvement on my pre-operative pain I thought that I would be farther along with my recovery at 13 weeks than I am, but suppose we are all different. Just want to get back to normal now.

Jenner b said on 19 July 2014

I had total hip replacement of my left hip on June 18th At Pilgrim hospital, Boston, Lincs. The total experience has been completely positive & was far better than I could have envisaged! I had a spinal block which was great as I only had the one numb leg & I had my op late afternoon & was up walking with a frame the following afternoon, I went onto crutches the following day & was discharged on day 4. I've had no problems with the wound & the district nurse removed the staples. I am now in week 4 of recovery & no longer need my crutches except if I walk away from the house & just Incase! Despite all the bad press this hospital has had I found the staff lovely & really helpful & work like Trojans!!

Proudtobewelsh said on 12 July 2014

Hi thereI am a 55 year old lady and had my left THR done on the 20th June 2014 in ysbyty Gwynedd hospital,so 3 weeks on I'm still using 2 crutches but can now make tiny little steps without but not going to push my luck,the recovery has been a lot better than I thought the first week I was losing a lot of discharge and was quite bad to be honest but was assured it was normal,after 4 days it stopped completley,pain wise has been very minimal the worst thing for me has been my heels burning me underneath but only on my operated leg,but I just rest it on the outside of the matress.I was very very emotional from day 3 for a couple of days thinking omg what am I going to do,is this going to get any better,but that feeling soon wears off.Some days are better than others,yesterday I could have taken on the world,today I have been in bed all day as my ankles for the last week have been so swollen it's unreal,i have them elevated when I am sitting in the chair downstairs but it just doesn't help,but when I lie on the bed for a few hours they go down considerably,but today I just thought I would stay in bed and they have been great,but of course I do get up and walk about.I have 6 injections left thank goodness out of 28 that go in my stomach which is black and blue at the moment,I have no bruising what so ever around my scar,I had 32 clips in all "wow" didn't realise the scar would be so big.Anyway hopefully in a couple of weeks I can get rid of the crutches and start feeling like a new woman again,good luck to everyone that is waiting for there operation and believe me it is nowhere near as bad as it sounds

cymw4 said on 12 July 2014

I had my total hip replacement on 22nd May 2014. Following successful surgery I became quite ill the next day and had to receive 2 units of blood and a saline drip. It was discovered that my Sodium levels had gone dangerously low and my haemaglobin count was not right. I had never come across the sodium problem nor had it been mentioned at any time and so thought that they were "fussing" too much, that is until I got home and looked at the information that my family had taken from the internet. I then realised how serious this was and could have resulted in me either being brain damaged or even death. I was in hospital for a total of 8days and am extremely grateful for the prompt treatment I received. Altogether I was quite poorly for 2 days and my sodium level did not rise for several days, this, I feel set back my rehabilitation somewhat. This was not the end of my problems as my wound also continued to leak which provided another cause for concern. However, I was eventully allowed home but had to return the following week for a wound check, fortunately this did clear.I am now 7 weeks into my rehabilitation and still have to use one crutch, but finding it easier, at last and can see improvement. Needless to say I am most disappointed after being led to believe that I would be "up and running" after 6 weeks. This just has not happened, I am still gratefull, however, to be here and am looking forward now to getting back to full fitness very soon.I have yet to see a site that mentions the possibility of the complications that I suffered so felt that I should comment, I just hope that I have not put anybody off. It will take a lot of thought by me, however, should my other hip need attention.

Joofin said on 05 July 2014

I had my total hip replacement which also included bone grafting just over 2 weeks ago. I stayed in hospital for 6 nights. The operation itself went well I struggled with the physio and walking after. I have now had the staples removed but am still badly bruised and uncomfortable. I am still using the crutches and can hobble slightly without them. I was expecting to be able to walk without crutches by now! Was I expecting too much?? I also want to know if the bone grafting makes it harder to heal than normal? Has any else had this op and what was your experiences??

Tinners said on 29 June 2014

What an improvement l am only 47 year old postman from Swindon. Just had my left hip replaced 4 wks ago (2/6/2014). 2 days before my fourth wk walking around without my sticks. Sleep pattern is still of at the mo, but you get use to that ( well l am used to being up early anyway) Some of the scared tissue still bit tender but no infection.Must admit the bruising and swelling went down in the 3rd wk, ( even though that scared me Lol) All rounder feeling fit and ready to get back on with my life, A "Big thank you" To the Great Western Hospital surgery staff and nurses from the ward l was staying in," Thank you"

HannahsMammy said on 17 June 2014

Thanks to everyone for sharing their personal experiences. I am awaiting total hip replacement surgery and whilst I'm not worried about the operation - I am very apprehensive about the 'aftermath' - so thank you for taking the time to post your experiences. Reading them is making me feel a bit less nervous.

Page57 said on 12 April 2014

I had a total hip replacement on 25 March in the Spencer Wing of the QEQM Hospital, Margate and my very first thought upon waking was "It doesn't hurt any more"! Obviously, I was still feeling (or not feeling) the effects of the epidural but when that wore off it still didn't hurt. I have had all the usual things such as fat legs, difficulty sleeping on my back, etc. but these were all such minor things when set against the fact that the excruciating pain I had been suffering has gone. I can now walk upright with my crutches and the stairs up to our flat are an absolute doddle, given that I used to regularly spend ten minutes getting up and down, arriving in a muck sweat from the agony. My right hip also needs doing but it is nowhere near as bad as the left. One thing that really kept my mind in a good place prior to the surgery is a little book by Maeve Binchy and Wendy Shea called "Aches and Pains". It is somewhat out of date but I think it should be prescribed to all hip replacement patients!

trl456 said on 09 April 2014

I am 10 days post op from having a total hip replacement. Everything went well, although suffering from swollen "tree trunk" legs which I am told is normal, and lack of sleep. Researched everything before the op and was aware of all the pros and cons. However, sleeping on my back is a nightmare but everyone says this. We were fortunate enough to buy new suite of furniture consisting of a couch and recliner chair (not done with the op in mind). Since I found it difficult to sleep, I preferred not to disturb hubby (and partially to avoid his snoring!), I chose to try and sleep in the reclining chair - and bingo what a bonus! You cannot fail to stay on your back, it's very comfortable, and reclines to allow me to sleep at least a few hours! Hubby is blissfully aware I'm not beside him during his "snoring hours", I have gained a bonus - but beware, night TV is absolute rubbish, boring and a good sleeping tablet! If you can beg, borrow or steal a reclining chair even for a few weeks, it's a godsend. At the end of the day you have to realise this is major surgery, does not go without pain on recovery, but the end result is feeling 20 years younger (I wish) and no discomfort - you know what they say "no pain, no gain"..

Doggiedoo said on 20 February 2014

I am 63 and I had my left THR on 9th February at the new Tunbridge Wells hospital in Pembury. From arrival to discharge my experience was good, if short!! I certainly didn't expect to have the operation on the sunday and be home on the Tuesday! I was walking with a frame the same day as the op then with 2 sticks from the Monday. I came home with 2 sticks and am still using them 11days on but the pain is reducing all the time. I was overweight for this op and know my recovery could be slower than someone a lot fitter but I cannot fault the process, the consultant, nursing staff and the aftercare from the district nursing team. I agree with most others though, the hardest bit is sleeping on my back!!!

joseypogle said on 05 February 2014

Hi..I am only 30 and had a full hip replacement on the 20th dec 2013!I was born with a defect in the ball and socket area which slipped out of place when I was 12 had it pinned back into position..they said I would suffer years down the line and jesus they were right...I was in so much pain somedays it was just un bearable. So I had mri scan&xrays and they only thing they could do is a hip replacement. I was shocked but I wanted the pain to go so I went ahead with it and oh wow what a change it is.It is just remarkable how different I feel..my posture is in line and my hip can move around pain free. Its been 6wks and I can walk without my stick but when I go out I take it with me just incase im knocked. Yes after the op I didnt think I could walk again but keep positive and work hard.. im over the moon.:-)

Allison66 said on 24 January 2014

I had a total left hip replacement in October 2012, I was so greatful to my surgeon for doing the op as I was only 47. The pain I had before the operation was totally gone. I was just a week away from my 12 month check when I bent too far at work and out it popped! Oh good lord he pain was so bad, much worse than before the op, it was put back in, just as before no pain whatsoever. Then first week of January 14 out it comes again. Staff at the hospital have been so fantastic I cant thank them enough. I have a shallow socket which could be why this happens. I would not think twice about having the other one done when the time comes ,as I have osteoarthritis thanks to Torbay Hospital for my days pain free. :)

jaynetc said on 04 January 2014

I am 55, as a child I had a benign tumour removed at 11 and 16, this left me with a thinner, weaker and shorter leg. Despite this I have always been active doing body balance, the gym and trampolining which I was quite good at.Over the last few years I developed groin pain which prevented me doing things to the standard I was used to, eventually making work very difficult as a nurse on a busy ward.For my birthday in November I had the best present ever, a total hip replacement. I woke up with no pain and my legs the same length! I have had some wound pain but not requiring pain relief after a few days. I have been very good following the rules laid down. As a nurse I am used to being in control. I must have been a terrible patient and was home in 3 days and managing very well. 6 weeks later I am walking indoors without a crutch although a bit lopsided. The simple exercises are helping although I was a bit sceptical initially. I still use a crutch when I go out partly to stop people knocking into me.I hope anyone on the waiting list will be reassured by my experience. The worst thing has been sleeping on my back, I fight the temptation of rolling over hard to resist. The operation is life changing.

Blake797 said on 01 January 2014

I'm 30 and have had arthritis in my right hip which has caused me pain and reduced mobility for the last 15 years. I have my Total hip replacement operation next week. I'm getting a little nervous about the recovery time and your comments and experiences are helping ease my concerns thank you. I'm hoping the next 15 years will be more or less pain free with increased mobility.

Jayay said on 14 December 2013

I had a ceramic hip replacement 3 weeks ago. The day itself was awful as I was last on the list and waited from 7am until 5pm before it was done. We sat in a waiting room on our own until 2.30 with no information... On doing the op my femur suffered a hairline fracture and I had a second op to wire that 4 days later.. I was in hospital a week. I can't even begin to walk on my leg for another 4 weeks and am sitting here feeling very down and emotional. I have found it very hard to sleep long on my back and usually wake about 3 in the morning to go to the toilet which I have never had to do before. I don't sleep again and lie for hours in the dark. The days aren't a lot better just sitting here waiting for the weeks to pass. I am an active gym going 61 year old and am not used to sitting around either. I am so tired all the time I can't concentrate to read either.. The boredom is dreadful...I wanted the nurse to come and sort my dressing out as I am the only driver in the house... You wouldn't believe the fuss.. I first rang requesting this help a week ago. I have been ringing most days with promises the nurse would come. After a week and 12 phone calls a nurse arrived last night to do it. I write to warn folks to not expect everything to go smoothly as my experience has left me bewildered. I expect I will have to have my other hip done before long and I am looking forward to that with absolute dread.

JohnMcCaf said on 28 November 2013

I am 60 years old and I had a full hip replacement operation at Glasgow Royal Infirmary on 11 November 2011. I work and would consider myself to be reasonably fit.

I experienced absolutely no pain even after the operation and only used Co-Codamol for a few days after the operation which helped with minor discomfort from bruising.

I was able to stand and sit on a chair the day after the operation and was on my feet walking about easily the following day and discharged the next.

The care I received was exceptional and I hold every member of staff of Ward 62 in the highest esteem.

My recovery continues extremely well and I convinced myself to exercise as much as possible.

Aided by crutches I ambled around a local park the day after discharge followed by following my wife around a local Morrison’s store. As the days progressed my walking excursions extended.

I haven’t looked back. For the past few days I have been walking unsupported for short periods to wean myself off of the crutches.

I have limitations with bending and I still only lie on my back to sleep. Aids provided by the hospital allow me to put a sock on the foot of the affected leg and a “grabber” helps pulling on trousers and picking up stuff from the floor.

With hindsight I reckon that my own reasonable fitness prior to the operation has helped with my recovery. Although walking previously was uncomfortable I endured the discomfort in an attempt to stay reasonably fit. I think it paid off.

northants267 said on 22 November 2013

I'm and was diagnosed with osteo arthritis in both hips in January this year. In July My consultant told me that both hips needed replacing and I had my first hip replacement op on 14 November. To say I was apprehensive would be a massive understatement. all went well and everyone at the hospital was fantastic.

The next morning I was up and doing physio and using a walking frame , that afternoon more physio and walking with 2 sticks. On 16 November more physio and taught how to get up/ down stairs on sticks and by 2.30 pm on my way home.

I can't believe how it's gone I was so worried. I stick to my exercise plan given by the physio sand I take all of my medication , don't be a hero you shouldn't be in pain and anyway the meds get you though day time tv !

My advice would be get ready for the operation , if you're able to exercise regularly and build up your upper leg muscles at a gym or go cycling also strengthen your arms and upper body. Get your home ready I used eBay and got settee raisers and chair raisers , a grabber helps with dressing and stuff too.

Maggieliz said on 03 October 2013

Hi I am 67 years old and have just had THR At the Nuffield In Oxford. After weeks of trepidation I can honestly say the worst part was the anxiety leading up to it. The care was fantastic - I had an epidural (which also lessens the pain post op) and a general anaesthetic. The day following surgery I was out of bed walking (slowly of course) with a frame and the next day on crutches. The pain was managed and was not at any time unbearable. On the third day I was allowed to go home. The physio taught me how to climb stairs and with just paracetomal and ibuprofen for pain relief have made good progress. It helped enormously of course that my husband stayed at home the first week and friends have been popping round the second week, because there are lots of things you cannot do. However I am now just 14 days post op - have walked round a garden centre (with two crutches) yesterday and am spending my first day totally alone in the house. I can manage to walk about at home with one crutch so can carry things in my other hand. My pre op pain has gone - I have still a little discomfort round my wound as the muscles etc are still healing but in general things are really good. The worst part after 2 weeks ? Sleeping on my back and having to wear the support stockings - not too much to grumble about I would say! I am really looking forward to eventually being able to do all the things I couldnt do before especially walking the dog!!

mikeswann said on 01 October 2013

@ Natalie148

Hi this is just a thought but in your area there will be a local church, most will help out on rotas you will need to talk to them. Also local doctors may be able to reffer you to a local home care - you may be able to claim this cost back.

there is also facebook, your area should have a media site allowing you to post questions to other people in your area, ask for help you will find that there are a lot of people willing to help in times of need that live in or round your mums area.

Natalie148 said on 26 August 2013

Hello, I'm desperately looking for some advice so really hope someone can help. My mum is 66 and due to have a hip replacement on Saturday. She needs both doing, so doesn't have a good hip. She can barely walk and has just been given crutches a toilet seat etc. The big concern is that she lives alone (I live 35 miles away, work full-time) and so has nobody to help or look after her after the op. She is a NHS patient, but is being sent to a private hospital for the operation. They have told her she will be able to stay for up to 5 days before being set home. Also, the say her address is just outside the aftercare area, so she must have "a plan" in place before Saturday! She is an NHS patient and therefore surely should be entitled to some aftercare without having to pay or social services to come in and help her (Which they have told her she will probably have to do). She's frightened to death that she won't cope (can't have a bath, can't bend down to put the TV on etc) and I'm extremely concerned about her welfare. She has been told by a friend that she should be able to go into a nursing home for up to 6 weeks respite, but doesn't know how to clarify this or arrange it. Her doctor has just left her surgery, so we are getting nowhere fast. I'm utterly disgusted that she' being left to sort all this out herself. She doesn't have a good hip which make it all worse for her and they are now deliberating which one to do first as they are both very bad and very painful. This is in Nottinghamshire. If anyone can help or offer any advice, please please do as it would be very much appreciated. Thank you in advance.

davewhufc said on 18 August 2013

hello wagwan and everybody elseI just had my left hip replaced on the 12th august 2013.You can have it done fully awake with an epidural, I opted for that , but you have something to make you relax as well. I was so relaxed I fell asleep. Sure I never slept well before as I was worried and felt tired, but I just slept the whole thing. It takes 90 minutes.

It is the 18th now and I am up and about on my crutches, well actually I was up the next day, but a bit scared as they tell you not to do too much.

I am on pain killers, but only over the counter stuff which I want to try and cut down on, as I only seem to have any pain when I first get up. Ive got blood thinning drugs too, they are inportant for thronbosis, or rather, not to get thrombosis.

I am just searching the net now, as I want to know how much to do is too much and how to reduce the drugs.because I feel very good, I cannot twist and turn, but walking with crutches is easy , even getting around with something to hold onto is too.suprisingly to me , they are not worried about the bone and your new joint, it is the muscle and ligaments you have to work on

I am very, very impressed, I am 55 and the worst part for me was getting my stomach to work properly. I am just back to normal now, Urine took maybe 36 hours but I could not pass stools. I think the epidural affects the stomach and a numb bum does not help.

I hope this helps, and if anybody else has advise or information, i would love to hear it.

wagwan said on 15 August 2013

hi all , i,m a 35 yr old male , i was on the waiting list for the last year for a total hip replacement due to avascular necrosis. i got an offer to have my hip done last month but i turned it down as i had started my dream job with the ambulance service four months earlier.i was made redundant last week and asked my surgeon,s secretary to squeeze me in if possible so that i,ll be able to get back to work as i have applied for the same job with different companies and the crb check takes about 8 weeks. i got a phone call today saying i,ve got a slot available next tuesday and have to go for my pre op appointment this afternoon. it,s a bit sudden but i,m ready to go as i am suffering with the pain on my hip and i need it to have it done asap however that does not stop me from being nervous. i,m not sure about being put to sleep. is there an option of having an op whilst i,m fully awake and how long will the op roughly last ? any help and info is greatly appreciated.

Dolly bird said on 28 July 2013

I had a left sided total hip replacement on the 21st of June this year at the age of just 28, and can honestly say apart from giving birth to my children it is the best thing I've ever done. I was born with a condition called perthes which in lay men's terms is very poor circulation to the hip joint can be one or both, this then causes the hip joint to not form properly results in the joint grinding and wearing down and also been very painfull. I'm now almost 6 weeks post open and although I'm not 100% I'm for the first time in 28 years pain free and recovering really well, my surgeon was absolutely fantastic and apart from my daddy one of the nicest men I've ever met, meeting with him tomorrow for my first post op check and I can't wait to thank him.The surgery was no where near as bad as I thought it would be, I chose to stay awake, my surgery took a total of 3 hours 20 mins, I was back on the ward in time for visiting hours and got to see my 3 beautiful children. I spent 4 days in hospital in total but only because I had my surgery on a Friday and the occupational ppl don't work weekends ( how very dare they lol) no looking back now the only way is forward and I'm feeling good :)

thin white duke said on 17 July 2013

I had a bi-lateral hip replacement on May 31st at the age of 53.Years of heavy lifting work and martial arts training had left me in agony!I had an epidural witha sedative (no way was I staying awake!) and went down at 3pm and woke up at 8pm.The first thing I noticed was the pain had gone and I was very clear headed. Next morning they had me up and awlking with a frame and the next day on crutches.I came out 5 days later and started practising my exercises.The staff of the surgi centre at Chase Farm Hospital were fantastic and I was actually sorry to leave!6 weeks later I have had my post op check which was fine and am back at work on light duties and looking forward to a holiday in Turkey next week.Going back in 3 Months to see them again for a check up.Thanks NHS for giving me my life back!

Dodie74 said on 13 July 2013

I'm 74 and had my hip replacement on 6th June. I had an epidural and took my iPod with me and listened to a story whilst it was carried out so was able to go up to the ward straight away. I kept being asked to describe my pain level post op but with the medication I was given it was zero. Left hospital on day 3 having shown I could walk with my crutches and climb stairs. Now, after 3weeks I am able to walk several miles comfortably with just a stick. Only discomfort is sitting in one place too long. The most frustrating part has been trying to sleep on my back and not being able to tie the laces on my trainers myself. I'll be glad when I'm able to drive again and get back on the golf course. The treatment I received from the NHS was first class. I wrote and told the newspaper how brilliant they were but of course they didn't print that, they only like negative stories.

booner said on 29 May 2013

Hi. I wanted to share my recent hip replacement experience. I had my op on the 14th may 2013. I was operated on via a spinal block and sedation i woke at 11am after looking at the clock in the anaesthetists room at 9am. Two hours had passed and my surgery was completed when i woke i was so coherent not like my previous experience of a general by 11.30 was back on the ward having a coffee and toast. I had a drain in but was not in any real pain. Had total bed rest for that day. The next day i had the drain removed and was got up with the use of crutches was walked up the ward. I was shown some exercises had to go up and down a few steps these i found to be fine. The next day I was discharged. I have done all that i was told to do and not to do and can honestly say that nearly 3 weeks on i feel fantastic. I was very worried about the surgery but can honestly say for me it was a breeze my wound has been clean and is healing well. I had my staples out last Friday that was fine as i could feel they needed to come out. I cannot praise the NHS enough for the pre op and post op care my hip feels fantastic and to be pain free when i walk is the best feeling. I hope my story helps anyone who is worried please be positive it really helps. Even though i was scared more of the unknown i think but am so pleased with the results.